Submitted by
fagundes79
a Racer
from Madison, WI, USA Date Reviewed: August 4, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Kettle Moraine Connector
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Purchased At:
Rbikes
Strengths:
Amazing craftsmanship, BOMB proof finish, classy look, and TREMENDOUS warranty support that recently replaced a rear triangle NO QUESTIONS ASKED!!!
Weaknesses:
My gutters never get cleaned, my lawn is a mess, and my wife is sans husband during the summer.
Similar Products Used:
Intense Spider, Titus Motolite, Scott Spark
Bike Setup:
Bomber, 717's w/ Cking ISO's, Marta SL's, & lots o' carbon.
Bottom Line:
Ellsworth owners never buy anything else. There's a reason you don't see many of these for sale used. This is a no-bs-point-and-shoot all mountain wonder!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kevin
a Weekend Warrior
from California Date Reviewed: June 9, 2006
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1550.00
Purchased At:
IEBIKES
Strengths:
rides great, climbs well and is very stable at speed and well balanced.
Weaknesses:
No real weaknesses, however, some will perceive the high bottom bracket as a minus, although I like it.
Great bike if you can find one in good condition, or a blowout like I did. This bike is great for anything up to real free riding. Although I am only 145lbs, so that helps. It climbs well, but my I-drive was better, although I think if I had some better (lighter) wheels this would help. Downhill the Id is great, with the Reba fork this bike works great for all but the biggest obstacles. The rear end is perfect, and "BOB" free. All in all this is a great bike, not to mention with the custom flame paint job it looks awesome also. However, because of the price it is only really an option for more serious riders...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Drew
a Weekend Warrior
from Los Gatos, CA USA Date Reviewed: April 28, 2006
Full XT/XTR, Hope hydraulics, Vanilla 125 RLC / DHX 5.0, King hubs on Mavic 717's
Bottom Line:
I've been bombing stuff on this bike for the last 3 years and it still looks & rides basically brand new. I think some paint rubbed off from a cable housing, but that's it. The ID is practically indestructible and as light/lighter than any 6" bike you'll find. ICT tracking inspires confidence in high speed decents through Nor Cal singletrack. I recently upgraded to a Fox DHX and it's so Cadillac. High BB you say, whine a little more. This bike is not a hardtail dart, but it handles anything from Northstar to long fire road climbs & descents. The ID is one of the best climbing all mtn bikes I have ever ridden - smokes the Heckler & rivals the Superlight (1/2 the travel). Since this bike was realeased 4 years ago, I haven't seen anything that can rival it on both the up & down hill.
Hats off to Tony Ellsworth and kicka$$ bikes made in the USA. I'm predicting the ID will be a new classic - similar to my beloved Mojo, one of the best hardtails ever made.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
LOS
a Racer
from Berkeley, CA Date Reviewed: April 15, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Skeggs trails/Pacifica...so many
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1600.00
Purchased At:
EBAY
Strengths:
Light!!! I got mine down to 26.5 lbs. Fast!!! good feel on the descents. Best trail bike I've ever had. Tried some other trail bikes (Blur LT, Truth, Nomad) but none have compared. This bike has great handling and wouldn't trade it for anything.
Weaknesses:
Probably tire clearance...But I don't really wanna run big ones on it anyway so...
Since the epiphany and the moment have come out you can find this bike cheap. Get it, upgrade the rear shock, and enjoy. This bike is crazy and you won't find a better trailbike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
AP
a Cross Country Rider
from Princeton Date Reviewed: April 5, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Ringwood
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
High BB, climbing ability, stability, active susoension.
Weaknesses:
Poor tire clearance, mud/rocks/sticks/leaves jam up forming a big ball of debris between tire and chainstay.
Similar Products Used:
Cannondale and Gary Fisher FS bikes, but not even close to similar.
Bike Setup:
AM1,RP3,SRAM
Bottom Line:
This is a follow up review to my previous post. After many hours of riding time on this bike I can say that the ID is one fine machine. I have adjusted to the tall fork, high BB and extra weight and I am finally blasting through climbs and descents. I am rolling over most anything in my way and with the help of the high BB, my previous hesitation is no more when confronting tall log piles and boulders. This bike can climb!!! With the flick of the ETA knob on the AM1 I am good to go as the fork is compressed with 30mm to spare - all I need for even the most technical climbs. I also flick the platform knob to + on the RP3. I am suprised to clear technical, steep climbs with greater ease and control, the bike tracks well and maintains grip even on those climbs littered with loose rocks. Going downhill is also a pleasure on this bike as it eats up everything with minimal flex. Maintaining control during high speed cornering can be difficult unless I reduce the fork's travel which isn't much of a problem with the TAS function - only drawback is that you have to let out all of the air before turning TAS knob. I am not having many stability issues with the high BB as I can almost fully compensate by compressing the fork through ETA or TAS functions on the fork. Im my experience the advantages of the high BB far outweigh any disadvantages as I ride mostly techical xc terrain with many tall boulders, rocks and high logs. The bottom line is that I love this bike as it has made mtbiking more fun for me.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Thomas Peters
a Weekend Warrior
from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Date Reviewed: March 28, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Kiara, Kuala Lumpur
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$3500.00
Purchased At:
KSH bikes, Kuala Lumpur
Strengths:
Frame construction, in particular the sealed bearings on the rockers and rear triangle. I'm also impressed with the Pike and the axle hub on the Crossmax XL.
Weaknesses:
The thick rear drop-outs are nice but they don't work well with even the strongest skewer. I've opted for an old Tranz-X 5-sided allen bolt to keep the wheel from going off whack. My other issue is the rear triangle itself. A comfortable minimum fit is a 2.25" tyre, no larger. A brand such as this ought to have a metal bolt-on or a cnc-cut badge.
With the exception of my Dean Duke Softail (23 lbs) the ID is the best climber I've got. It doesn't feel heavy (32 lbs) on climbs and it's stiff even without SPV. I'm sold on ICT and the simplicity of 'tracking the chain line' but I'm wondering how pivot positions could form a basis of intellectual property, but that's another issue. The ID may not popular over here but looks the business. I'm pushing 50 but I wish I'd purchased when launched 5 years ago during which period I purchased a lemon or two. It should be the 1st frame for anyone to hang on his wall. What sold me was the brand itself, ICT, the shot-peened frame, those lovely exposed bearings and Ellsworth's neck on the line.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris Woods
a Weekend Warrior
from Wetumpka, AL USA Date Reviewed: February 16, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Swayback Trail
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$1895.00
Purchased At:
BeyondBikes
Strengths:
Incredible quality and attention to detail. Ano frame is almost impossible to scratch or ding.
I have found that this bike is an absolute dream to ride. I have begun riding technical terrain that I never dared to do before. This being said the bike still climbs quite well. I do find myself winding down the travel on the Talas for extended climbs. Ellsworth has done a nice job building this frame and the quality of workmanship is top notch. The high bottom took some getting used to but now I roll over downed trees and logs with ease. My only complaint is the lack of mud clearance for the rear tire. However I have probably caused this situation by running 2.4 WTB tires. I would recommend this bike to all XC or AM riders looking for a quality do it all rig.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
A.P.
a Cross Country Rider
from PRINCETON, NEW JERSEY Date Reviewed: January 6, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Ringwood
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
QUALITY OF FRAME, EFFICIENCY, PAINT JOB (CUSTOM EDITION), LOOKS, IT CLIMBS AS WELL AS IT DESCENDS, HIGH BB ENABLES ME TO FLY OVER EVERYTING.
Weaknesses:
NONE AT THIS TIME.
Similar Products Used:
SCHWINN AND DIAMONDBACK HARDTAILS, K2, GF SUGAR, CANNONDALE JEKYLL.
Bike Setup:
AM1, RP3, THIS AND THAT.
Bottom Line:
SO I CHOSE THE ID OVER THE 5-SPOT AND INTENSE EVP. I DECIDED TO GO WITH A HORST LINK FRAME AND TURNER DID NOT HAVE ANY 2005'S LEFT IN MY SIZE. SINCE THE WHOLE TNT THING IS SORT OF NEW, I DECIDED TO HOLD OFF ON THE TNT FIVE SPOT UNTIL IT IS RIDER/TIME TESTED. THIS BIKE IS MUCH HEAVIER THAN MY PREVIOUS FS SO IT IS TAKING ME SOME TIME TO GET USED TO THE EXTRA WEIGHT (APPROX. 30LBS). HIGH BB AND MY CHOICE OF THE 150MM AM1 IS ALSO TAKING ME SOME TIME TO GET USED TO (BUT THE TAS AND ETA HELP MAKE IT EASIER TO ADJUST TO THIS BIKE). ALTHOUGH I AM CLIMBING SLOWER(NO FAULT OF THE BIKE), THIS BIKE ENABLES ME TO CLEAR STEEP/TECHNICAL CLIMBS BETTER THAN ANY OTHER BIKE THAT I HAVE RIDDEN. ONCE I GET USED TO THE HIGH BB, AM1 AND WEIGHT I AM SURE THAT I WILL HAVE NO PROBLEMS WITH CLEARING STEEP AND TECHNICAL CLIMBS. THIS BIKE DESCENDS EQUALLY WELL, IT IS STABLE AND YOU HAVE 100% CONTROL OF THE RIG. I SWAPPED THE ROMIC COIL FOR THE FOX RP3 TO SHAVE SOME WEIGHT OFF, BIG IMPROVEMENT FOR MY STYLE OF RIDING (XC) AND BODY WEIGHT (SUB 150LBS), OTHERWISE I WOULD HAVE STUCK WITH THE ROMIC. THE COMBINATION OF THE RP3 AND AM1 MAKE RIDING TECHNICAL TERRAIN A LOT MORE FUN. I AM STILL MESSING AROUND WITH SUSPENSION SET UPS, BUT YOU CAN IMMEDIATELY FEEL THE PLUSHNESS AND STABILITY OF THE AM1 AND THE FOX TAKES ANYTHING IN THE REAR (I AM TALKING ABOUT THE RP3, NOT THE RIDER :) I HAVE MANY HOURS OF RIDING AHEAD OF ME SO I WILL UPDATE THIS REVIEW DOWN THE LINE. SO FAR I LOVE THIS BIKE, 5 CHILLIES FOR VALUE TOO AS I GOT A GREAT DEAL.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kirk
a Weekend Warrior
from San Juan Capistrano Date Reviewed: December 26, 2005
Favorite Trail:
San Juan Trail & Porcupine Rim
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
mtbr
Strengths:
I waited and waited to find the right parts for this frame. I took about 3 months. I think I founds the correct parts and it rides like a dream. It's still light and climbs like a Truth, but it decends like a Moment.
Weaknesses:
The standover height is just a little to high with my 30 inch inseam, but it sags into the perfect riding position (I prefer riding and not standing over my bike so it's not really a weakness). I could go down to a 7.5 eye to eye rear shock to lower the bottom bracket, but my 7.875" Cane Creek Cloud Nine feels so good on both the climbs and downhill and I like the high bottom bracket for better clearance when doing log or large rut or log hopping. This bike is so ballanced and there is no pedal bob at all.
Similar Products Used:
Kona Dawgs and Bears (The Ellsworth Id climbs so much better than Konas because it's lighter and the rear is so solid and stable).
Bike Setup:
Large black ano Ellsworth Id, 04 Marzocchi Z1 FR SL air fork, 7.875 Cane Creek Cloud Nine rear air shock, King headset, Thompson stem and seatpost (get the 410mm length), Terry Liberator Ti Race saddle, XTR front, XTR rear and XTR shifters, SRAM cassette, Avid disc brakes and Avid Ti levers, Easton carbon riser bars, Oury grips, Sun Singletrack rims and Panaracer tires.
Bottom Line:
Buy one if you can still find any out there. You will be happy!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Isaac Silverman
a Cross Country Rider
from Auburn, California, USA Date Reviewed: July 26, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Resurrection Pass Trail
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2500.00
Purchased At:
private party
Strengths:
efficient and active rear suspension, stiffness of rear triangle
Weaknesses:
none so far
Similar Products Used:
demoed turner 5 spot (only bike that compared)
Bike Setup:
sram x0 rear and shifters, paul front, minute 3, spinergy xyclone disc, magura marta sl, thomson stem/post, race face deus X crankset 26.5 lbs
Bottom Line:
I exclusively rode XC hardtails (schwinn homegrown) before the Id. The full suspension XC bikes I tried (giant, trek, specialized) were not active enough and did not offer enough travel for me to be willing to sacrifice weight and pedaling efficiency. Basically they allowed me to ride the same trails at similar speeds, going a little faster on the downhill and a little slower on the uphill. The Id has changed both what and how I ride. The 5" of plush travel in the front and back and high bottom bracket allows me to fly down descents I used to have to pick my way down on my hardtail. For climbing I dial my front fork down to 4" and have found that technical climbing is MUCH easier. For trails that are up and down on moderate to technical singletrack I am significantly faster on my Id than on my 22.5 lb homegrown. I don't huck anything on my Id but I have done 5 1/2' drops and caught some reasonable air off jumps and the Id has handled them admirably. The only real tradeoff I see is that I am slightly slower on fireroads. If you ride trails and do the occasional drop and jump, it just doesn't get any better. Value rating is a 4 cause I got an excellent deal.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Scott Davis
a Cross Country Rider
from Wyomissing, Pa. USA Date Reviewed: July 5, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Blue Marsh/French Creek
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$4000.00
Purchased At:
Richards Bicycles.com
Strengths:
The Id is an amazing all-round bike for all types of mtbing.
Weaknesses:
n/a
Similar Products Used:
Blur
Bike Setup:
Shimano XTR dual shifter/brakes fox float talas and rlc.
Bottom Line:
Mike at Richard's is a standup guy who helped me by building a first class bike. This was my first new bike in 12 years so I wanted it to be sweet and he delivered.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
James
a Cross Country Rider
from SLC, UT, USA Date Reviewed: April 14, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Wasatch Crest
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1800.00
Strengths:
CLIMBING, super plush ride, and awesome for tight switchbacks. Some of this could be the short fork I'm using.
Weaknesses:
$$$, but not really different than any of the other high end frames, needs a long enough fork to balance the high BB. Needs 4" of seatpost insertion!
I'm 5'10", 150# w/o riding gear, and like fast and aggressive trail riding.
This is just an initial review. I'll update later in the season or after I change the fork.
The Marathon 105 is just a bit too short for seriously fast downhill trails. I'm going to start looking for something in the 130 range once I have more money.
That being said, this bike climbs better than ANY bike I have ever ridden and that is with no lockout or even a platform fork. When I get out of the saddle, it just grips even better. I climbed the steepest most loose trail I have ever climbed in my life, and then turned around to see my friend, who usually can slowly climb anything on his hardtail, get off 30 ft below me. On smooth hard surfaces, I'm sure the 5-7 lb lighter hardtails would kill me, but most trails here have loose 7 rocky climbs.
The other place I really like this bike is in very tight spots, the high BB makes it so I'm never worried about pedal strikes.
Conversely, the high BB and ~1" shorter fork puts the HT angle a bit steep for very fast decents. Maybe I will adapt. The back end is much more precise than my old GT and that helps the confidence some. When I lean sidewise on the two saddles, the rear triange of the GT flexes quite a bit, while the ID has no noticable deflection.
Still not sure if the 400# spring is right for me, but it sure is plush. Maybe I'll go to 450-500#
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Clark
a Weekend Warrior
from Auckland, New Zealand Date Reviewed: March 31, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Riverhead in summer
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
Bikesmith
Strengths:
Frame finish and quality, strength, lightweight, looks, not too many around
Weaknesses:
Are you kidding
Similar Products Used:
Giant VT, Truth, various others
Bike Setup:
Black frame,Fox float w/Pro Pedal, Talas RLC, XTR cranks w/ 959 spd, Thompson stem & post, King hubs & Hset, Bontrager rims, No Tubes, Nokian tires 2.1/2.3, Sram XO & triggers w/ Nokons, WTB saddle, FSA carbon bar, Magura Louise FR w/ braided cables. Bikesmith in Albany did a top job putting the bike together and have provided great follow up support and advice.
Bottom Line:
This thing is fantastic, climbs like a mountain goat, quick steering,high BB is a bonus, the power goes straight to the back wheel with no lose thru the suspension, on downhills the bike inspires confidence. Quality of frame and components is superb, I would not change a thing. Sram rear mech has been trashed twice, rebuilt and is still going strong...unbelievable strength and quality. If you are looking for an all round trail bike, only doing low level jumps then this is the bike for you. This is by no means an inexpensive bike, but you do get what you pay for. Chuck out the rest this is the best.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Andy Stephenson
a Weekend Warrior
from Marietta, GA, USA Date Reviewed: February 23, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Int'l Horsepark, Conyers
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$4000.00
Purchased At:
Beyond Bikes
Strengths:
Wow! What a rig! this is the most comfortable bike I have ever ridden. The Frame is a work of art. I don't know why it is listed under free ride, because it climbs as well as any cross country bike I have ridden, and smokes them all on the desent.
Weaknesses:
Color Selection, and how long it takes to get them, and cost (but you get what you pay for)
Similar Products Used:
Giant NRS, Jamis XLT 2.0, Litespeed Notia
Bike Setup:
Fox Talas Fork, Romic rear, king headset and hubs, mavic 819's, all 05 xt, kenda 2.3's.
Bottom Line:
if you save up long enough get it. As soon as I sat on this bike it was like I was home. super comfortable and wicked fast.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Shawn
a Weekend Warrior
from Camas, WA USA Date Reviewed: January 25, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Post Canyon
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1900.00
Purchased At:
Universal Cycles
Strengths:
Climbing, ICT tech/4 bar linkage; able to accomadate 150mm travel up front; 6" option for the rear; warranty and customer service (Ellsworth called me shortly after my purchase to se how I was enjoying the bike).
Weaknesses:
Color selection. You pay this kind of money and have a choice of three, what's with that?
Similar Products Used:
Last bike, Rocky Mountain Element Race.
Bike Setup:
Black frame size medium; 2005 Marzocchi Z1 FR 150mm; Romic 6'; Single Track rims; Hadley hubs; Hayes hydrolic w/8inch rotor up front; Thompson 70mm Stem and seatpost; XT derailer up front and SRAM X0 in rear; X9 trigger shifters; XT cassette; Nokian NBX tires 2.5 front and 2.3 rear; RaceFace DH crank and BB; Blackspire C4 bashguard; WTB seat.
Bottom Line:
No regrets for the $$$! This bike allows me to get that XC ride on Saturday and not miss a beat with the climbs. Going from a XC race bike to this I feel that I have not lost one bit in climbing. The ICT works like a charm! On Sunday, I can shuttle with the boys and take some 3/4' drops (I prefer to ride and beat them to the top). Built up right, it can be the do all bike that climbs like a machine and allows for a drop here and there! (The boys at Universal Cycles can help build a sweet machine)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
larry pascua
a Cross Country Rider
from walnut creek,california Date Reviewed: January 16, 2005
Favorite Trail:
give me rocks please
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1900.00
Purchased At:
mtbr ad
Strengths:
lightweight compared to other bikes with around the same travel,geometry,anodized,comfort
Weaknesses:
none whatsoever,i have to say that again, none
Similar Products Used:
intense 5.5 , santa cruz blur
Bike Setup:
all shimano XT 04,manitou nixon platinum,spv 4 way coil rear,chris king headset,thomson seatpost,answer pro taper ,oversized carbon bar,answer stem,candy sl's,selle italia ti flite saddle,maxxis tires front,intense rear,black anodized 03 medium frame
Bottom Line:
best performing bike in its class, i had a 2000 and a 2002 truth but the first time i start climbing with this set up, i did not have any problems at all (this rig climbs like the truth,if not a little better)and the fun begins going down rough terrain. this bike just eats everything in sight,im really amazed on how solid it handles and very pleased with the purchase, this baby stays with me....i highly recommend this for an aggresive cross country type rider,i gotta give it perfect rating
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ryan
a Racer
from Redondo Beach, CA Date Reviewed: December 6, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Suicide
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1895.00
Purchased At:
Beyond Bikes.com
Strengths:
This is the best application of the 4-bar linkage. It is plush and climbs like crazy. I like the high BB.
Weaknesses:
Limited sizing options, so you're telling me that a $2000 frame only comes in 3 sizes?!? The same head-tube length on all three sizes.
Similar Products Used:
GT LTS, C'dale Super V, C'dale Gemini, Azonic Propulsion
Bike Setup:
XT/XTR shifters and derailuers, Talas fork, AC cranks, American Classic hubs on Mavic rims, Magura Marta brakes, Thomson Seat post and stem, and King headset.
Bottom Line:
Talk about buyer remorse. I hate when manufacturers give "hypothetical" top-tube lengths. Ellsworth claims a 24.25" top tube. It is actually 23.5". This is where my head-tube complaint comes in. With the 4" head tube on this bike, I have to put 55 mm of spacers under the stem to get the bar up to where I need it. The problem with this is that, since the head angle is shallower than the seat angle, the more spacers you put in the shorter the top tube gets. So the taller you are the worse this frame fits. I'm 6'2", I can't imagine that 6'4" guy on this bike. I do like the way this bike rides. It climbs well and has a plush suspension feel. I can't imagine how much better it would feel if they made my size. It is rediculous the amount of money they charge for this frame and don't offer 5 sizes.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeffrey Puzas
a Cross Country Rider
from Bowie, MD, USA Date Reviewed: November 26, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Patapsco State Park, MD
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$5200.00
Purchased At:
College Park Bikes
Strengths:
Combination of light weight and long travel is excellent. Workmanship is outstanding. Shines on very steep extremely bumpy climbs.
Weaknesses:
Tends to squeek a lot at the shock mounts. Haven't been able to solve this issue yet.
Similar Products Used:
Cannondale Super V with 4" travel Carbon Lefty fork
Bike Setup:
Mavic CrossMax SL wheels, Fox Talas R 5" travel fork, Easton Monkeylite bars, Thompson seatpost and stem, FSA Carbon Cranks, Selle Italia Seat, XTR front derailure, SRAM XO rear derailure, SRAM PC99 chain, XTR cassette, Time ATAC Ti pedals, Romic Steel Coil Shock, Continental Explorer 2.1 tubeless tires, Hope Mini Brakes with 185mm rotor in front and 145mm in rear, King Headset Weight is 28.5lbs
Bottom Line:
God forbid, if this awesome machine got run over by a tractor trailer I would replace it with the exact same thing - no buyer's remorse. I am 6'4" 210lbs with a 35" inseam and ride very hard mostly cross country but some free ride stuff. Admittedly, I am pressing and probably surpassed the intended size for the design. I was able to make it work with a long seat post and using all of the steerer tube with about 3 inches of spacers. If you exceed my size I would not buy this bike. I am pressing the limit. Today, to impress the boys, I jumped off of a 4ft wall onto a flat landing and the Id sucked it up no problem. On fast rocky downhills the bike has no equal in the group with which I ride that includes Blurs, Truths, Cannondale Super Vs. The guys are reconsidering the need for more travel. Bottom bracket height is an outstanding feature as I rarely bang the chain ring over some pretty nasty logs. The Mavic Wheels are bullet proof. Be sure to get an adjustable travel fork as it improves the climbing ability dramatically. In full travel mode I can't steer on steep uphills, but crank it down and slide foward on the seat and one can climb like the proverbial mountain goat. The rear suspension's ability to track (not loose traction) over nasty roots and rocks on steep anaerobic climbs is amazing. The instant center tracking seems to really work as advertised. With the large rotor up front I can stand the bike on its nose with one finger. The rear has more than enough stopping power with the 145mm rotor. If they made a smaller rotor for the rear I would get it. The accuracy of the fork is nowhere near as good as the Carbon Lefty but the extra travel is worth it. I notice it most on very fast downhills where I am aiming for a particular spot on the upcoming berm. I can never quite hit the spot for which I am aiming like I can on the lefty. Don't know if this is due to the head angle, torsional rigidity, or what, but it does not match the lefty as far as steering accuracy. If you want to save some weight get an airshock. The Romic with the steel spring is really heavy but it works really well. I am going to get a Ti spring which is good for about 0.375 lbs for $200. I did have to return the Romic for service as they forgot to put a shim in on the rebound side - they covered the return very professionally although I was disappointed that Ellsworth did not take care of it. They sent me to Romic. The Continentals climb very well but do not corner with confidence. Went to Specialized Roll-X and cornering is much better but climbing is not as good. Lots of flats and leaking at the rim with the Continentals. I went to the Specialized Roll-X and Stan's No Tube and seem to be having good luck.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark Ney
a Cross Country Rider
from Holladay Date Reviewed: November 24, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Wasatch Crest
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$4800.00
Purchased At:
Wrench Science
Strengths:
BEST quality workmanship I have ever seen on a mountain bike -- Lightweight for a medium travel bike -- Strong like an ox -- Smooth
Weaknesses:
Needing to explain to your wife why you need to buy the $4,800 Ellsworth over the $3,200 Gary Fisher. All of your cronies will be jealous and will want to ride it.
Similar Products Used:
Gary Fisher Cake, Gary Fisher Sugar, Trek Fuel, Santa Cruz Blur.
Bike Setup:
Black Large ID, Romic Ti shock w/700lb spring, Manitou Minute Three, XTR Disk with integrated hydraulic shifters, XTR 960 180mm crank, XTR F&R derailleur, XTR 11-34 cassette, XTR Chain, Eggbeater 2-Ti, King NoThreadSet +30 stack, ProMtn 80mm-6 degree stem, Easton EA70 1.5x27 riser bar, Yeti grips, Thompson post, Selle Itallia saddle, Continental Vertical Pro UST 2.3s, XTR Disk hubs with Mavic 819 wheels, XTR skewers, MOTO SYLE BRAKES.
Bottom Line:
I am not a small man, but have been using my ID to steadily decrease my waistline. I bought the ID because I wanted an XC bike that could handle a 270lb beefcake, but be light enough that once I reach my 190lb goal I would still be happy (I’m more than ½ way there!). My bike weighs 27.8lbs with the big fat 2.3” tires and heavy-ish romic spring shock. With a diet of lighter tires and a 5th element air shock this bike will be sub-26lbs. This bike is as confidence inspiring as they get. It is so smooth that you often don’t realize how fast you are going until you have to stop and wait for your friends to catch up. But not only is it smooth on the down, I often forget that it is a full suspension bike on the up. I love the adjustable Minute 3 fork…100 on the way up…130 on the way down. Since I got this bike I changed from a weekend warrior into a daily grinder (I think my wife is jealous). The only negative I have had is that when you break XTR components it gets expensive to fix in a hurry. A small oops on a big rock cost me $300+ for a new cassette and rear derailleur.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John Backshis
a Cross Country Rider
from Chicago, IL Date Reviewed: September 20, 2004
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2999.00
Purchased At:
rbikes.com
Strengths:
This is a great bike. Its lightweight, handles superbly, pedals well uphill without pedal bob. The 2-5" of adjustable travel on the Psylo SL is awesome for both road & x-country riding. The anno finish is super durable and the black looks really fresh. On top of handing great, the shifting on this bike is ultra smooth. All of the components work great with the drivetrain's shifting. The rear Romic racing shock makes traveling through x-country type terrain very comfortable. It soaks up all of the bumps, while still proving efficient in pedaling.
The Hayes Hydraulic brakes are very responsive. Braking has never felt more controlled, as the bike stops on a dime!
Similar Products Used:
Trek VRX 400, other...
Bike Setup:
Ellsworth Anno black lg, Rockshox Psylo SL w/ 2-5" travel adjust w/ firm kit, SRAM X0 Shifters, Shimano XT Front Derailleur, SRAM X0 Rearear Derailleur, Rritchey Pro Grinder w/ sealed bearing hubs, Romic shock, Ritchey Pro Vader 2.1, CrankBrothers Candy SL, TruVativ Stylo SL, TruVativ Giga Pipe Team SL bottom bracket, Hayes Hydraulic R&R Brakes, Cane Creek S2 headset. Ritchey Pro bar, stem & seatpole.
Bottom Line:
This bike is great. I've never been more satisfied with a product of this magnitude. I've ridden a few other full suspension bikes in the past, and none seem to handle the way this one does.
All of the componentry seems to work perfect with the design of the ID frame. It is lightweight, yet doesn’t feel as if the weight affects the quality of the ride. The X.0 shifts much smoother than any previous Shimano products I’ve used. The Romic coil shock w/ the 600 lb spring has been working very well. This is the first shock that has held me up and pedals very well due to my large size. I find that the Romic, for a large guy like me, is the best shock that I've ever had.
Also, the guys at www.rbikes.com were very helpful. They have great phone support, and their head guy Mike Richards knows what he’s talking about. I've called around at a bunch of different shops, and talked to many people, and Mike really seemed dead on with any questions I had to ask. On top of this, the guys at Richards gave me an excellent price that nobody else could come close to beating! I would highly recommend them to anyone who is looking to get into a high end mountain bike. Thanks guys!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris Lashua
a Cross Country Rider
from Gardner, MA, USA Date Reviewed: September 17, 2004
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2600.00
Purchased At:
Beyond Bikes
Strengths:
Machining, weld, and finish quality. The Plushness of the ride without pedal bob.
Weaknesses:
May need a few more frame sizes to satify all
Similar Products Used:
Old bike was Schwinn Homegrown Full Suspension. Stiff standing and somewhat plush sitting.
Bike Setup:
05' Fox Talas RLC fork, 05' Fox Float R, Hope Minis, XT all around.
Bottom Line:
The bike rides as good as it looks. I was a little worried how I would like it because of all I have read about the bottom bracket height and the frame not fitting people, etc. The 17" fits me perfect (I'm 5'11" 185lbs) and I haven't noticed the BB height except maybe I don't hit my chain rings and pedals on roots and rocks as much as my friends do. It is quick in the switchbacks, climbs as well as my homegrown did, and down hill it is point and shoot. I am running the standard setup(not Cali) and I set my talas at 100mm. This is nice for XC, I will run 120-130 when I do trail riding. This bike is perfect for New England riding, but the size of the frame is for a limited size of people. With the 17", I think it will fit 5'10" to 6" tops. Bottomline, this bike is the perfect bike for me, my height, and what I plan to ride with it. I can't say enough about how much I enjoy riding the ID.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dan Shashou
a Racer
from New York, NY Date Reviewed: July 23, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Platekill
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$3800.00
Purchased At:
Richards Bicycles
Strengths:
Everything, this bike rocks!
Weaknesses:
Nothing
Similar Products Used:
Turner, Santa Cruz, others.
Bike Setup:
Chris King headset, Monkey Light EC90 bars, Sherman Firefly fork, Romic Racing Shock, Juicy Seven Hydraulic brakes,ODI Lockon grips, Thomson Elite post, Mavic 321 rims, Crank Brothers Pedals, WTB Rocket Laser Saddle, Panaracer Fire tires, bunch of other XTR components.
Bottom Line:
Richards Bicycles rocks! Speak to Mike Richards, he will treat you right. Mike is a very honest man with a lot of experience. Pricing is very competitive. The Ellsworth ID is on the pricy side, however you get what you pay for.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Trent
a Cross Country Rider
from Redlands Date Reviewed: July 11, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Broken Arrow/Chicken Point- Sedona
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$2195.00
Purchased At:
IE Bikes
Strengths:
Great build quality, beautiful welds, one piece machined bottom bracket/shock mount/chain stay pivot, light weight 6" frame
Weaknesses:
None yet!
Similar Products Used:
Trek Fuel 90 disc, Sugar 3, Ellsworth Truth
Bike Setup:
17" black frame, Romic w/Ti spring, Psylo SL, Thomson stem 100mm, Thomson seatpost, Chris King headset, XT cranks, derailers & shifters, 6" Hayes, Mavic XM 819 w/Chris King hubs, Salsa Ti skewers, Kenda Blue Groove 2.35 front & rear, WTB Laser V Ti rails
Bottom Line:
This is my dream bike. There is nothing on the market that I would consider replacing my Id. I have ridden this bike 200+ days the last 18 months & love it. Granted it was pricey, but you get what you pay for!
I am only 5'8" and have a 30-31" inseam, I have not had any problem with stand over. The top tube is mighty close while standing flat footed, but no problems to date.
The high bottom bracket did take me a while to get use to, but is a much greater advantage than disadvantage. During our most recent trip to Sedona, I found myself cleaning technical climbs that I would hike on my Fuel. The front end does get light on steep climbs, but nothing sliding onto the nose of the seat won't fix. I rarely ever adjust the travel on my fork either, just have gotten use to climbing with a more slack geometry.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a Weekend Warrior
from Los Angeles Date Reviewed: July 3, 2004
Favorite Trail:
The ones with dirt.
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$2200.00
Purchased At:
Mountaineer Cycles, Morgantown WV
Strengths:
Very well made. Great trail bike. Does it all. Great bearings no real maintenance. The price just came down.
Weaknesses:
Rear tire clearance could be better. No real mud worries in Southern California.
Similar Products Used:
Turner XCE, Giant NRS, Cannondale V, Santa Cruz Heckler and Superlight. Hardtails before that.
Bike Setup:
Fox Vanilla 125 RLC, everything else is just good stuff.
Bottom Line:
A truly great bike. It climbs very well. Descends like a demon. The 6" of Romic coil shock really does the job. I am 6' 195 lbs. I have no top tube concerns. I have the 17' frame. The bottom bracket is on the high side, but that is good for me. I can roll over anything up hill, and keep pedaling. I used to stall when I hit my cranks on a log or rock if I couldn't ratchet my cranks in time. Now I just roll over stuff up and down hill. This is a point and shoot bike. It is not a confusing design to me. It is an all-mountain hard-riding trail bike. You get to ride all day and come home in one piece. My Turner XCE was the standard before my id. I haven't ridden my Turner in over a year. My girlfriend and kids ride that now. Of course I still have to service the bushings...If you want a rugged all mountain bike check this bike out.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brad
a Cross Country Rider
from Portland, OR Date Reviewed: July 1, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Tarbel
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Universal Cycles
Strengths:
Excellent fit and finish. Top-notch lateral stiffness. Suspension cartridge bearings appear bombproof and quiet. Almost zero detectable pedal bob, and no "brake jack". Quality anodizing. Unique functional design. Durable derailleur hanger.
Weaknesses:
Top tube may be too high for some (fine for me). BB may be too high for some (perfect for me). Swingarm only accepts a 2.1" tire (if you want a little margin for mud).
Similar Products Used:
Owned a Klein Adept (a very different x-country bike from a geometry & durability standpoint), have ridden VPP designs and single-pivots.
Bike Setup:
Large frame. Fox 125RLC set at 5" travel. Thomson 110mm stem. Easton 2.5" riser bar. 1" shim stack under stem. CK headset. Stock Romic shock, 450 lbs. 2.35 tire ft, 2.10 tire rr. Thomson seatpost w/ Salsa QR, Titec DH seat. Shimano XT drivetrain. Salsa Trials bash guard replaced the big ring. 959 pedals. Sun Singletrack wheels, 32-spoke, 14 ga. straight laced 3-cross w/ XT hub rear, deore front. Shimano Deore hydraulic discs w/ 6" rotors.
Bottom Line:
Quick background: I'm 6'4, long in the legs, and about 195 lbs. I consider myself an aggressive trail rider, and I enjoy riding up the mountain about as much as I like riding down it. I wanted a bike that would pedal uphill, soak up drops in the 2-3' range, and barrell down technical descents without rattling apart.
To make all of this happen for less than $4K, weight becomes an issue (i.e. the heavier wheels needed to survive, the heavier seat, etc.). But, despite my build-up weight of about 30 lbs., the bike still pedals efficiently uphill, and I'm quite pleased with it. In fact, I'm a better climber on this bike than I was on my 28-lb. Klein -- and I attribute that largely to the anti-bob nature of the rear suspension.
When I first rode the Id up a technical trail, I have to say I was initially disappointed. I wasn't used to the geometry in a climbing setting, and it took about 50 miles to really get used to it. Once done, though, I was negotiating tighter switchbacks than ever before, climbing at a steady pace over 7" roots and rocks, and generally impressing myself with moves I couldn't pull on other bikes.
So what was difficult to get used to? For one, the bike has a long wheelbase. I initially had trouble negotiating tight turns because of this. Changing your arc, though, solves this once you get used to it. Your body weight is also positioned relatively far rearward -- great for descents, but pushes you to pick your lines carefully when climbing -- and pushes you to become a master at fore/aft weight distribution.
The geometry also was hard to get used to with the 5" travel fork on the front (when climbing only). Yes, the front end wants to wander at times, and doesn't feel firmly planted as it might on a tamer-geometry x-country frame. It takes a bit of practice to keep the front tire hooked up. Once you master it, though, it becomes second nature (but it still may not be the most efficient). The best, I think, would be to have a front fork that could be adjusted on the fly from 6" of travel (for descents) to 3.5 or 4" of travel for climbing. This would drop the front end just enough to optimize weight distribution.
On that note, if you're looking at using a non-adjustable fork, I definitely wouldn't recommend using anything with a stroke over 5". The 5" fork seems to complement the 6" of travel in the rear quite well (I have it tuned to utilize about 97% of it's travel under most riding conditions). This is especially true when you land with about 60% of your weight over the rear end, which feels natural with the Id's geometry.
A previous reviewer pointed out some weaknesses in the Id's geometry for those who don't buy 36" inseam pants (like me). And what they said makes perfect sense to me. For myself, the standover height seems fine (I wouldn't want it to be any greater, however), but I can completely see how someone with legs an inch shorter (still on a large Id frame) might feel cramped. And, when you're riding an Id in the technical conditions it's made for, dismounting in off-camber situations is often vital, which makes standover height all the more critical. It is true that the Moment, the newest 4-bar design from Ellsworth, "solves" this issue with a lower top tube.
The other geometric oddity, that you'll either love or hate, is the bottom bracket (bb) height. At 14.5 inches, it's in the same neighborhood as many freeride/DH bikes. The advantage, of course, is being able to roll -- and even pedal full revolutions -- over obstacles like roots and downed logs. The disadvange is that to climb efficiently (and if you're buying this bike, you should have at least SOME climbing in mind), the seat post has to be up pretty high. This, of course, is a tradeoff, whether you have long legs or short. I believe it is a preference issue -- I like it, but some others may not. Again, the Moment "solves" this by dropping the bb height if that's a deal-breaker for you. Certainly, if you don't plan on riding over tall obstacles (or laying the bike on it's side during banked downhill turns), there's no advantage to a taller bb.
With the tall bb height, it's almost mandatory to have a quick-release collar. I move the seat a lot, but I don't consider this too bad of a tradeoff for optimizing climbing and descending. The Thompson seat post is nice because you can use the laser-etched letters to provide reference points for various saddle heights.
The biggest weakness for me, at least, is the fact that the rear swingarm can only accomodate a 2.10 rear tire (Ellsworth claims 2.20, but every 2.10 I've had on mine has been tight enough with minimal mud clearance). Again, the Moment addresses this. While I'd still run a 2.10 tire in the rear out of choice in 95% of the trail conditions I ride in, I'd like to have to option to put a 2.35 back there for a few of the more ripping downhill runs I do on occasion...
I've been happy with the Fox 125RLC on this bike. I never lock it out, and try to stay in the saddle when climbing. I'm sure some would advocate using a stable-platform fork to complement the semi-stable-platform rear, but I wouldn't rank that too high on the list -- unless you do a lot of climbing out of the saddle.
And, the Romic has performed great for me, and was easy to set up. My only wish is for a titanium spring (I've been told they aren't available yet from Romic), a $200 upgrade that shaves off about a half pound.
So, to wrap up... I haven't talked to anyone who has ridden a Moment, but I would suspect it performs similar to the Id with the geometry changes discussed above. I think the decision between the Id and the Moment is largely one of your body type and your preferred frame geometry. If they're both available, I'd try them both to see which one you're most comfortable on. Keep the bb height and top tube height in mind.
I think the Id is a great frame, and I have no regrets. It is certainly a high-end niche bike, though -- one that won't appeal to everyone, but will be almost 100% perfect for those that it was designed for. Keep in mind that it gets dicier when you try to purchase an "all-mountain" bike that does it all -- every bike is a collection of tradeoffs, from durability to weight to pedaling efficiency. Find the attributes that are the most important to you and see if the Id fits your needs and riding style.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
JC
a Cross Country Rider
from Somewhere in the foothills of Northern CO Date Reviewed: June 23, 2004
Favorite Trail:
The One I'm On...and the next one too
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1995.00
Purchased At:
BeyondBikes.com
Strengths:
Super fine paint job, nice attention to detail, good fit and finish of all parts, 4-bar design is a good one, very chi-chi looking, gets chicks
Weaknesses:
GEOMETRY (on the L frame) Which,unfortunately, is almost everything!
Similar Products Used:
Currently on a 03 Heckler and 04 Blur, prior bikes include Giant AC, Kona Hei Hei, GT STS 1000,
Bike Setup:
Large orange ID with Fox AVA Pro Pedal shock, Manitou Minute 3:00, SRAM X.0 / 9.0, Thomson stem & post, Easton XC70 carbon bars, Race Face Next cranks and new Mavic Crossmax Enduro wheels
Bottom Line:
I know I'm gonna get flamed for this review but I have to tell it straight. I really wanted to love this bike. I tried my hardest. I built it with the nicest parts. I loved the way it looked. I liked all of the comments. I kept riding it and repeating, "I'll get used to it. A 14.5 inch bottom bracket will help me....especially with a non-sloping top tube...who needs standover..."
The bottom line is that this is the wierdest bike I have ever ridden. Frankly, it was downright dangerous. Here's my concession, though. This bike just didn't fit me. Although, I went as far as renting a medium ID while I was in Moab just to see if it was me. I don't think it was. The medium was way too small.
About me: I'm 6'2 with a 33 - 34 inch inseam. I fit fine on just about every other L/XL bike out there. I have an XL Heckler w/100 mm stem and a XL Blur w/120mm stem - both fit fine. My road bike is a 61cm Vortex. I used a 120mm stem on the ID - top tube length was not an issue on the ID, however, the crazy-high bottom bracket combined with the level-as-the-horizon top tube was.
It was nearly impossible to mount this bike on anything but smooth, level ground. Even with the fully extended, tippy toe, ballerina stretch you are not going to touch the ground with your feet while your butt's in the saddle unless you A.) have your seat super low B.) have really, really long legs or C.) you're riding in a skinny ditch. On most occasions, I would just do the "leap of faith" thing to get back on and hope I wouldn't have to dismount too quickly because that was an issue also...
My impression of this bike is summed up like this: SUPER LONG LEGGED CROSS COUNTRY RIG - If you're over 6'4 with a lot more leg than torso, here's your full suspension XC bike. This is not a freeride rig nor would I consider it a "trail bike". The geometry is very XC - and, by the way, the head and seat angles for this bike on Ellsworth's website call it 69.5 HA / 72.5 SA which would put it on the slack side of XC - . My measurements put it closer to 71.5 HA which, when you're dealing with five inches of travel make it 1.) hard to steer at speed and 2.) pure XC. Ellsworth also says the BB height is 14 inches - which is already huge - mine measured 14 and 5/8's with standard, 26 inch wheels & 2.3 inch tires which makes it third tier, top row, way up in the nosebleed section. Ellsworth's website recommends this bike for people 5'9 and above. My 5'10 riding buddy couldn't even straddle the top tube...
And, while I'm on the subject of tires. Why does a five /six inch travel bike only allow 2.2 inch tires? If my 2.3 inch tires got so much as dirty they would rub the chainstays. And, while I'm on the subject of travel, there's no way I was getting five inches of travel. My last three bikes were all five inch rigs and the ID was nowhere near as supple. Although, it did pedal okay but no better than my SPV equipped AC or my Fifth Element equipped Santa Cruz'(es).
It appears that Ellsworth has addressed all of the problems with the ID by issuing a new bike, the Moment. You'll notice by perusing their website that the Moment is practically the same bike but with a lower BB height and without the horizontal top tube (which means lower standover). The angles have also been slackened a half degree - although, who knows if those measurements are accurate? The initial magazine reviews have been great but I have yet to know anyone who has ridden a production model. IMHO, if you're considering an ID, hold out for the Moment (Yes, I do have a poetic license.)
So, you would expect a poor overall rating but there was a happy ending to all of this. I bought this frame for $1995.00 during a free fork sale at Beyond Bikes so I got a new, free Fox Talas RLC which I promptly sold for $650 online (I already had one). I was only out $1345 for the frame - which I sold for $1450 online. In the end, I made a hundred bucks on this deal and I got to ride an ID for a while. Not a bad "value" when you comparison shop - but a terrible deal when I consider how I enjoyed riding it (I didn't).
I'm giving three chile's for the overall because I feel strongly that this bike correctly fits less than half the people that would potentially buy it and due to the fact that the head angle and BB height were misrepresented.
I'm giving it 3 chiles for value because, for me, it was a "good" value. I'm deducting two chiles because they advertise it as $2295 frame. When you see what you can get from Titus, Santa Cruz, Jamis and Giant for $2295, there's just no way the ID can be considered a good value unless you judge a bike mainly on paint quality and the use of cool fonts...
For those of you that can comfortably ride a large ID, good luck finding pants that fit..:-)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Pic
a Weekend Warrior
from Mission Viejo, Ca Date Reviewed: May 26, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Porcupine Rim
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1995.00
Purchased At:
BeyondBikes.com
Strengths:
Weight, Travel, Color, Welds, Made in the USA
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Ventanna El Habnero, SC Superlite, SC Bullit
Bike Setup:
"17 orange frame, Minute 3, XO shifters and R Der, Hayes Mag+, Chris King hubs and Headset, Ryno lite rims, Thompson stem and post, Easton riser- 29Lbs
Bottom Line:
I Love this Bike! It is worth every penny. It has improved my climbing so much, that my friends are making excuses for dropping behind. I can feel the bike accelerate with every pedal stroke, Tony E. really nailed it with that ICT. And not just a climber, this bike rips on the downhill. The rear tire stay glued to the ground during braking and through stutters, giving me plenty of confidence to go faster. If you get this bike you won't be sorry. PS- Thanks to the guys at BeyondBikes.com for putting my bike together in two days for a Sedona trip. Those guys are super cool.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
TY
a Weekend Warrior
from Breakenridge, CO Date Reviewed: May 11, 2004
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1800.00
Strengths:
stiffness, no petal-bob, looks great, rides like a dream
Weaknesses:
NONE
Similar Products Used:
nothing compares
Bike Setup:
19 inch frame with 6 inch rear travel. Sherman firefly, XO shifters and derailers, raceface crank/bar, rockstar wheelset. Its just under 28 pounds (not to bad for a six inch travel bike)
Bottom Line:
This bike in sic. The perfect all-around bike. If you want to do a little of everyhing this is you bike. Climbs like a hardtail(no petal bob at all) on the steeps and dowhill sections it soaks up almost everything. You can ride this bike on any trail out there. A quick hour ride on a lunch break or a 24 hour race. I am way more confident on this bike then I have ever been. go buy one and dont worry about the price. Its worth every penney.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ryan Steele
a Weekend Warrior
from Palos Hills, IL Date Reviewed: April 23, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Slime Trail
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$4500.00
Purchased At:
RICHARDSBICYCLES.COM
Strengths:
Frame design. Spot peaned finish. Higher bottom bracket. Romic racing shock. Weight. Durability. Best 6" travel bike with a full size frame. Very little / no pedal bobbing at all. The front fork feels extra sturdy while going over rough terrain. Super durable frame.
Weaknesses:
I havn't found any.
Similar Products Used:
None similar, but I've had a Cannondale Gemeni, Ruckus 2.0 Hardtail
Bike Setup:
Ellsworth ID Large, red. Forks marzocchi FR SL. Rockshox psylo sl. Manitou comp LTD. Wheelset is Hugi hubs. Mavic 3.1 tubless rims. XTR hubs w/ new D 3.1's. Sram X.0. XTR bottom bracket & crank. Azonic headlock bolt. Shimano XT hydrolics. Thompson seat post. Thompson stem. Monkeylite SL bars. ODI lockjaw grips. XTR front deraileur. WTB laser V seat. Weirwolf UST 2.1 & scropion python 2.2 tubless.
Bottom Line:
Well, I've had this bike now for about 1 year and the bike has held up far better than any other bike I have previously owned. I ride more agressivly now than ever before, and I havn't had a single problem with the bike thus far. This is the best trail bike that I've ever had or ridden. The higher bottom bracket is excellent. The spot peeaned finish is very durable. The romic racing shock has a great amount of adjustabliity. I found that the SRAM X.0 works better than the Shimano XTR as far as shifting. Its nice to have a bike w/ 5 - 6" of travel that I can still peddal uphill. Bottom line, the bike has made me a much better and more agressive rider. I'm very satisfied with the Ellsworth ID. The guys over at Richards in Chicago were very helpful and professional as well. Even a year after owning this bicycle, they still give me any needed adjustments for free without hassle, sometimes on the spot! I shopped all over and found their shop to be the best. Now I even ride with the guys from Richards, whom most ride an Ellsworth ID too.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jim Sener
a Weekend Warrior
from Glastonbury, CT Date Reviewed: April 10, 2004
Favorite Trail:
all of them
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Strengths:
strength to weight ratio, efficiency
Weaknesses:
frame is quite spendy
Similar Products Used:
Ellsworth TRUTH, FSR
Bike Setup:
Mavic Crossmax XL's, FOX TALAS 125 RLC, Fox Float/EVA air, 2004 XTR group (sweet), Easton Monkeylite bars, Easton stem, WTB Weirwolf 2.5's (unbelieveable tires)Bike weighs 26lbs and is super strong...
Bottom Line:
I owned a TRUTH for 5 years and when it came time to buy a new bike, I went with the 2004 ID. The first week I had it, I did a one 55 mile ride and it was awesome from start to finish. It rides beatifully, climbs great, decends with confidence. If you want an all around bike that can climb like a goat and fly down, this bike is sweet.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
James
a Cross Country Rider
from San Diego, Ca Date Reviewed: March 31, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Santa Ana River Trail
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Beyond Bikes
Strengths:
If you are looking for a plush, all mountain trail bike this is it. Soaks up the big hits and small bumps. Virtually no bob or flex.
Weaknesses:
You sit high on the hog but it is worth it in the technical rocky sections as your buddies are slapping their pedal against the rocks
Similar Products Used:
Tracer
Bike Setup:
Romic, Fox TALAS RLC 125, Avid mech disc, Thompson stem/seat post, XT comps
Bottom Line:
I could go on and on about how great this bike is. It's an all mountain ride that climbs with the best even though you are pushing 30 lbs up hill. Down hill it's a dream come true. If your looking for a huck bike this isn't it but if you are looking to step up from cross country and ride this good stuff this is the bike. I would also like to thank Beyond Bikes for building such a sweet machine. I watched them build it and it was the little extra touches that make a good bike great. Thanks!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tom Smith
a
from Mission Viejo, California Date Reviewed: March 25, 2004
Favorite Trail:
5 Oaks, Telonics, etc
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
Bike Company
Strengths:
Decends well and climbs good enough to get to the top!!
Weaknesses:
Front wheel tend to come up on steep climbs with a 130mm fork, however with an adjustable front fork, this problem goes away.
Similar Products Used:
Uzzi SLX,Tracer, Every Santa Cruz made, Foes FXR,
Bike Setup:
King wheels on 519's, Manitou Sherman Firefly, (awesome fork)XT and SRAMX-9 drivetrain, Hayes brakes
Bottom Line:
The Ellsworth I am riding is a 2001 original frame that has had various parts of it replaced by warranty. (It's a mystery to me why anyone would complain about warranty issues as I have had 2 Ids and have never had a problem with warranty.) My Bike is the California ID model that is new this year, with a shorter stroke and eyelit length Romic that drops the BB 3/4 of an inch and slackens the head tube. The California ID is a very good bike period. They can easily be built up in the mid 20 pound range and are capable of bombing steep, fast trails such as Telonics. I have ridden many custom mountain bikes and I can say that this bike works better than any Intense, or Santa Cruz as a trailbike. This bike is also flexible as you could buy the 7.875 X 2.25 inch shock and have a much more X-country oriented bike. There is no reason not to buy an ID.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jim Hill
a Weekend Warrior
from Malden Date Reviewed: February 24, 2004
Favorite Trail:
The goodie trail
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2002.00
Purchased At:
In town
Strengths:
CUSTOMER SERVICE!! It is by far they strength of this product! I feel like I bought a Mercedes, Mondo and Kathy made me feel my happiness was there priority and were very prompt with responding to the issues I took up with them. To me this goes a long way (especially after dealing with ROCKSHOX BS!) since I tend to keep nice things a long time.
Weaknesses:
None that I am aware of so far,, but if and when there are any you will be the first to know.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized,K2,Diamondback,Schwinn uh basically similar in that they all had tires on them and a seat.
Bike Setup:
So sweet it would make your teeth hurt!
Bottom Line:
At this point I have not had a chance to really blast with it yet, I just finish building it and took it around the block a few times. So far so good. So all I can tell you is that it is beautifully crafted (take it from a welder, it is the friggin work of an artist!) It was a lil difficult jiggin the shifter cable through the seat stay but I got it down pat now. When I saw the gusset that Ellsworth used on the rear seat stay (D tube style) it appears to be more than enough material added to keep it together- AS LONG AS IT IS RIDDEN IN ITS ELEMENT! Before you buy this thinking that because its a 6" travel frame and others have gotten away with 6-7' drops, don't plan on it! Buy a MOMENT model or if you are extreme Freeridin fool save your pennies for a DARE, THIS IS a long travel, light weight XC-Trail bike, these frames are as good as they get for what they are designed for. Don't make the mistake other reviewers made and buy the wrong frame for the wrong application, choose wisely, but choose Ellsworth!
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Submitted by
matthew
a Cross Country Rider
from LA, california Date Reviewed: February 23, 2004
Favorite Trail:
MT lowe frontside- up & down
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
climbing efficiency, no bob romic coil, plush talus shock, cross country geometry on super plush, confidense inspiring rear triangle. Plushness of a free ride bike with the climbing geometry and handling of a cross country racing bike
Weaknesses:
hard to convince the wife that you need to spend that much money on a bike
Similar Products Used:
specializedm4 fsr- owned demoed- turner 5 spot, great bike but I coudn't demo one on a trail with my spring size. spot. blur, good ride but i definately wanted a 3-5 inch front fork with out warrenty issues.
Bike Setup:
xtr, fox talus, mavic 717, easton mag 60 & stem carbon bars, thompson elite post, egg beaters
Bottom Line:
I love this bike because it suits the technical, steep cross country riding that I like to do. I set it up light (26 lbs) so it climbs forever with the talus dialed down yet it also has enough suspension to allow me to attempt any trail that I want to try to decend. It eats up small drops and absorbs all the bumps that I encounter how ever its definately not a down hill bike. The steep geometry is less foregiving on steep decents and I dont get any big air but it seems too light for big drop offs. I do however love the handling in the technical switchbacks and the high clearance is great for any rock garden that i try to pick a line through . If you want a super plush cross country ride that will give you confidence as you attempt to keep up with the down hill crowd this is a great bike. If you want to buy a free ride bike that will allow you to ride like a down hiller then this is definately not your bike. If you want to attack the climb as much as much as you attack the decent you should definately check out this bike.
the guys at beyondbikes.com are awesome if you are even thinking about buying one of these, they know there stuff, have great prices and have a great shop.
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